Lockheed X-17

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The Lockheed X-17 was a three stage solid-fuel research rocket to test the effects of high mach reentry.

[edit] Service history

Lockheed X-17

The first stage of the X-17 carried the rocket to a height of 17 mi before burning out. The rocket would then coast on momentum to about 100 mi before nosing down for reentry. The second stage engine would then fire before jettisoning and igniting the third and final stage. Ultimately the X-17 would be travelling towards earth at up to Mach 14.5.

The X-17 was also used as the booster for the Operation Argus series of three high-altitude nuclear tests conducted in the South Atlantic in 1958[1].

[edit] Specifications (X-17)

Lockheed X-17 on its launching platform

[edit] General characteristics

Length: 40 ft 4 in (12.3 m)
Wingspan: 7 ft 7 in (2.3 m)
Diameter:
- 1st stage: 2 ft 7 in (0.79 m)
- 2nd stage: 2 ft 5 in (0.43 m)
- 3rd stage: 0 ft 9.7 in (0.25 m)
Empty: lb ( kg)
Loaded: 12,000 lb (5,400 kg)
Propulsion:
- 1st stage:1x Thiokol XM20 Sergeant solid-fuel rocket, 48,000 lbf (213 kN) for 28s
- 2nd stage:3x Thiokol XM19 Recruit solid-fuel rocket, 33,900 lbf (150 kN) for 1.53s (each)
- 3rd stage:1x Thiokol XM19E1 Recruit solid-fuel rocket, 35,950 lbf (160 kN) for 1.53s